Design engineer Mike Brow...
Design engineer Mike Brown.
For racers who have experienced frustration in trying to check for proper release-bearing clearance, a new tool by QuickCar could be the one they've been looking for. Developed by QuickCar's design engineer, Mike Brown, the clearance tool is simple to use, and most importantly, it provides absolutely accurate measurement when the release-bearing clearance is being set.
In the past, clearances have been measured in a cumbersome three-step method. First, a straightedge is placed across the bellhousing, and a measurement is taken by sliding a tape measure or dial caliper against the fingers of the pressure plate (sometimes called the cover plate). Next, a straightedge is placed on the release bearing and a measurement is taken back to the transmission flange. Once both readings have been taken, they are subtracted to check for acceptable release-bearing clearance (usually 0.065 to 0.125 inch). This method usually requires a veteran on hand to do the job, and it can be confusing and frustrating.
The first step is to place...
The first step is to place the tool frame against the bellhousing. Then the steel rod is slipped forward until it rests against the pressure-plate fingers.
All of that confusion and frustration is put to an end with QuickCar's clearance tool. Made from machined aluminum, this is a one-piece precision tool that's easy to use in checking bearing-release clearances. Use of this tool makes the measurement of release-bearing clearance accurate, foolproof, and best of all, anyone can do it. Priced at $97.50, this could be a very worthwhile investment for your racing program.
Manufacturer
QuickCar Racing Products
Dept. CT02
44 Pearl Pentecost Rd.
Winder, GA 30680
(800) 997-7333

A small O-ring on the other...

A small O-ring on the other end of the shaft is pushed forward until it's flush against the backside of the instrument.

Next, the other end of the...

Next, the other end of the frame is placed against the transmission housing. After the rod is pushed against the release bearing, the resulting distance between the tool and O-ring is the clearance (usually 0.065 to 0.110 inch). There is nothing to be measured because, if the ring falls within the edge of the aluminum frame, the release-bearing clearance is correct. If the O-ring is past the edge of the aluminum frame, the release bearing requires shims. Conversely, should the O-ring not make it to the edge of the frame, shims are removed.